How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Putnam Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Putnam Correctional Institution is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Putnam Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Putnam Correctional Institution

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Putnam Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Putnam Correctional Institution?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Putnam Correctional Institution?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Putnam Correctional Institution. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Putnam Correctional Institution. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Putnam Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Putnam Correctional Institution
   128 Yelvington Rd
   East Palatka, FL 32131
   Phone: (386) 326-6800

5. What are the visiting hours at Putnam Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Putnam Correctional Institution vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (386) 326-6800 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Putnam Correctional Institution?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Putnam Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Putnam Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Putnam Correctional Institution through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Putnam Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Putnam Correctional Institution, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Putnam Correctional Institution?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Putnam Correctional Institution for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Putnam Correctional Institution, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Within the framework of correctional rehabilitation, a multifaceted approach to personal development creates pathways for meaningful transformation. Putnam Correctional Facility typically emphasizes comprehensive programming that addresses the diverse needs of individuals through carefully structured opportunities designed to foster growth across multiple dimensions of human development. This holistic methodology recognizes that sustainable change emerges through the integration of educational advancement, therapeutic intervention, and practical skill development.

Educational opportunities often form the cornerstone of personal advancement, with education programs that may encompass basic literacy instruction, high school equivalency preparation, and various vocational training initiatives. These academic pursuits typically provide individuals with foundational knowledge while simultaneously developing critical thinking capabilities essential for successful community reintegration. The educational framework often extends beyond traditional classroom settings, incorporating hands-on learning experiences that bridge theoretical understanding with practical application.

Moreover, therapeutic and support services typically complement educational initiatives through targeted interventions addressing underlying challenges. Substance abuse treatment opportunities often provide evidence-based approaches to addiction recovery, while grief counseling may offer specialized support for individuals processing loss and trauma. Additionally, transitional support services such as work release programs and comprehensive reentry preparation typically focus on developing essential life skills, employment readiness, and community connection strategies that facilitate successful post-release adjustment and long-term stability.

Daily Life & Visitation

The steady rhythm of institutional bells and announcements now punctuates each day for individuals housed at Putnam Correctional Facility, creating a structured environment where routines typically begin before dawn and extend through evening hours. Individuals regularly participate in mandatory counts that occur throughout the day, with movement between housing units, work assignments, and program areas carefully coordinated by correctional staff. The facility generally operates on a schedule that balances security requirements with opportunities for personal development, education, and rehabilitation programming.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of dormitory-style housing units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Individuals usually share living spaces with roommates and have access to basic amenities including personal storage areas for approved belongings, though space remains limited and personal property must generally comply with institutional guidelines. Meals are typically served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with menus that aim to meet nutritional requirements while accommodating dietary restrictions and religious observances when possible.

Moreover, the facility often offers various recreational activities including outdoor exercise periods, library access, and structured programming that may include educational classes, vocational training, and counseling services. Individuals typically have opportunities to maintain family connections through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, though these communications are generally monitored and subject to facility regulations. Whereas daily life follows a highly regimented schedule, many individuals find structure in work assignments that may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or other facility operations that offer both routine and the possibility of developing practical skills during their incarceration.